PATTAYA, Thailand – For years, Pattaya has marketed its extended Songkran as a unique selling point — a longer, louder, wetter version of Thailand’s most famous festival. But among long-term visitors, the mood is shifting, and not in the city’s favor.
A scroll through Pattaya Mail’s online forums reveals a growing sense of frustration, with many seasoned visitors now openly questioning whether the extended celebrations have gone too far.
“It’s not for everyone anymore,” one commenter wrote bluntly. Another summed it up even more starkly: “One time, never again.”
While traditional Songkran across Thailand typically lasts three to four days (April 13-15), Pattaya’s version stretches far beyond that (April 17-19) — with different neighborhoods celebrating at different times, culminating in Wan Lai events days later. For some, that extended energy is exactly the appeal. For others, it has become exhausting.
Critics point to a mix of issues:
— Water throwing continuing well beyond official cut-off times
— Safety concerns, especially with water thrown at motorbike riders
— Questionable water quality, including reports of drain water being used
— The sheer duration, with festivities dragging on for weeks in some areas
“Ice cubes in the face while riding a bike, dirty water, and no escape at night — it’s just not amusing anymore,” one long-term visitor complained.
Another added: “Three days would be enough. A week feels like hell on earth.”
The frustration isn’t just about discomfort — it’s also changing travel decisions. Some commenters say they are actively avoiding Pattaya during Songkran altogether, opting instead for quieter destinations like Bangkok or even leaving Thailand entirely.
“We’re all off to Vietnam,” one user wrote, reflecting a sentiment that is becoming increasingly common.
Even those who once embraced the chaos now appear to be reaching a tipping point. What was once seen as fun and spontaneous is, for some, now overcrowded, excessive, and disconnected from the cultural roots of the festival.
“Look at the crowds,” another commenter said. “Half of them don’t even know what Songkran means.”
Despite the criticism, Pattaya is still expected to draw large crowds this year. Hotels continue to fill, and authorities remain confident in strong tourism numbers. But beneath the surface, the conversation is changing.
For a growing number of long-term visitors, the question is no longer whether Pattaya will be busy — but whether it’s still worth it.
